IRCC Study Permit Update: New DLI Transfer Rules

This can turn a routine transfer into a serious immigration issue and not just an academic move.

The revised guidance confirms that students whose study permit names a specific Designated Learning Institution (DLI) must apply for a new study permit before moving to another school.

If they transfer first and apply later, their existing permit can be invalidated and they may be considered to be studying without authorization.

The change is particularly important because IRCC removed the online DLI transfer notification tool on November 1, 2024. Since then, most post-secondary students have generally been required to apply for a new study permit before changing institutions.

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What If Your Study Permit Does Not Name A DLI?

IRCC also introduced guidance for students whose study permits do not list a specific Designated Learning Institution.

This mainly affects permits issued before November 8, 2024, when naming a DLI on most post-secondary study permits became a requirement.

According to the updated instructions, officers must review the conditions attached to those permits before finding a student non-compliant for changing schools.

Students in this situation should still plan to obtain a study permit that reflects their current institution when renewing or changing their status.

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Why This Matters For Immigration Plans

A gap in authorized studies can create problems later when applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) or permanent residence.

IRCC officers often review a student's full study history when assessing future applications.

The update also clarifies that changing programs within the same school is generally permitted only when the new program remains at the same study level.

Students moving from a diploma to a degree program, or from an undergraduate to a graduate program, should review whether a new study permit is required.

Planning to apply for permanent residence after graduation? Learn more about Express Entry and other available pathways.

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A Key PGWP Detail Many Students Overlook

IRCC's updated program delivery instructions now clarify that studies are generally considered complete when a student first receives official confirmation from their institution, such as a completion letter, final transcript, degree, or diploma.

This date is particularly important because graduates normally have 180 days to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit after completing their studies.

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Students Cannot Work During Authorized Leaves

IRCC has also consolidated its rules on leaves from studies.

Students on an authorized leave, including those affected by a school closure, generally cannot work on-campus, off-campus, or complete co-op placements until they return to active studies.

Students moving from secondary school to post-secondary studies should also note that a secondary-level study permit does not automatically authorize college or university studies.

IRCC now explicitly states that students must obtain the appropriate study permit before beginning post-secondary education.

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Good News For Students Facing School Closures

One important clarification in IRCC’s June 18 update is that students affected by a DLI closure, strike, or bankruptcy are now explicitly considered compliant during the transition period, as long as they act within the 150-day window.

This means they can switch schools, change status, or leave Canada without being treated as out of status while they sort out next steps.

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A Compliance Issue Could Affect Future Applications

While IRCC has not announced new penalties, a finding that a student studied without authorization could become relevant when officers assess future temporary residence, work permit, or permanent residence applications.

Maintaining clear records of school transfers, study permit applications, and enrollment history may help avoid future complications.

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What Students Should Do Now

• Confirm whether your study permit names a specific DLI.
• Review any school transfers made after November 2024.
• Verify your official program completion date.
• Keep records of authorized leaves and program changes.

Students should also consider future PGWP eligibility before changing programs, as some non-degree programs must meet field-of-study requirements.

While many students will not be affected, those who changed schools, switched study levels, or are approaching graduation should review the updated guidance carefully.

Have questions about your study permit or PGWP eligibility? Get instant guidance with the UmberApp AI Chat.